What Is Dermabrasion (Microdermabrasion)?

As we age, many of us notice fine lines and wrinkles. Our scars seem to jump right out of the mirror at us. Something constantly reminds us that our skin isn’t as young and smooth as it once was.

When we begin to notice the evidence of aging, we understandably begin to look for a way to turn back the hands of time. Some of us start to look towards plastic surgery for options.

Two such options are dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. Many people use the terms interchangeably, but they are two different procedures. Which one should we choose when our skin isn’t as youthful as before? Let’s look at them both to discover the similarities and differences.

What Is Dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion uses a tool that rotates quickly to remove the outer layer of skin. When the skin grows back it’s typically smoother and younger-looking. For this procedure, the doctor numbs the skin. In some cases, general anesthesia or sedatives may be used.

The point of dermabrasion is to reduce the appearance of flaws in the skin. Scars, lines, wrinkles, and other imperfections are improved with this procedure. The procedure can be done alone or in conjunction with other procedures, but it’s only recommended for people with light skin tones.

The first three weeks after the procedure, patients tend to have sensitive skin that looks blotchy. After about three months, the skin will be closer to normal. Dermabrasion goes deep beneath the outer surface of the skin. Microdermabrasion, while similar, is a different process.

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion, like dermabrasion, is used to reduce the appearance of skin flaws. There are two techniques for microdermabrasion. The first uses a tool to sand the outer layer of skin away. The second uses suction and a spray of sodium bicarbonate or aluminum oxide to remove the outer layer of skin.

Either microdermabrasion technique is relatively non-invasive. This procedure is beneficial for people with age spots, sun damage, stretch marks, and several other skin conditions. It’s safe for various skin tones and types. Safe is great, but is it costly?

The Difference in Cost Between Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion

Generally speaking, microdermabrasion is less costly than dermabrasion. Dermabrasion is considered a surgical procedure, so anesthesia is required along with the costs that are associated with that. Microdermabrasion usually costs somewhere between $150 and $200. And, both procedures are considered cosmetic, so they are typically not covered by insurance.

Conclusion

When skin isn’t clear and smooth any longer, some people turn to plastic surgery as a solution. Two of the common procedures for skin issues are dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. The two are similar, but they aren’t exactly the same.

Dermabrasion extends deeper into the tissue beneath the upper layer of skin. Microdermabrasion typically only goes as deep as the outer layer of the skin. Microdermabrasion, consequently, is the less expensive of the two treatments. Usually, insurance won’t cover the cost of either procedure because they are cosmetic in nature.